By Hagxy Don
A coalition of over 400 concerned residents of Lugbe Village, Abuja, led by Kamala Madugu and Muhammed Hassan Danmaliki, has formally petitioned multiple police authorities over what they describe as illegal and targeted operations against okada riders, many of whom are internally displaced persons (IDPs).In a letter dated May 22, 2025, and addressed to the Head of the Complaint Response Unit at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, the group accused DSP Mathew Bala and CSP Ugochukwu of gross misconduct, misleading the FCT Commissioner of Police, and conducting unauthorized raids in the community.
The petition, which was also copied to the Police Service Commission, the Commissioner of Police FCT, and other relevant oversight bodies, alleges that the two officers have been abusing their authority by orchestrating unlawful crackdowns on okada riders. These crackdowns, the petitioners claim, have involved unwarranted arrests, harassment, and the indiscriminate seizure of motorcycles, often without legal basis or due process.
More disturbingly, the residents allege that Bala and Ugochukwu are working in collusion with certain corrupt elements among the okada riders themselves. These individuals, reportedly used as informants or field accomplices, are said to be exploiting the situation to settle personal scores and fuel division within the already fragile IDP community in Lugbe.
“Our complaint centers around the deliberate misinformation being fed to the Commissioner of Police, which has resulted in operations that unfairly target vulnerable members of our community,” the petition reads in part. “These actions are not only unlawful but also constitute a clear abuse of power and a threat to public trust in law enforcement.”
The petitioners are demanding an urgent investigation into the matter, disciplinary action against the officers involved if found culpable, and immediate cessation of the alleged illegal activities. They emphasized the need to protect the rights of IDPs and ensure that law enforcement efforts are carried out transparently, lawfully, and without bias.
The situation has sparked growing tension in the community, with residents warning that failure to address these concerns may lead to unrest and a breakdown of order. They are calling on the Inspector General of Police and all relevant agencies to intervene swiftly and restore justice and accountability in Lugbe.
Contact for Further Details:
Kamala Madugu / Muhammed Hassan Danmaliki
Phone: 07030895123 / 08145320204
Lugbe Village, Abuja